Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are medications that are often taken for pain and inflammation. NSAIDs can also prevent blood from clotting and reduce fevers. NSAIDs work by blocking certain enzymes, called cyclooxygenase, or COX. COX-1 protects the stomach and maintains kidney function. COX-2 can irritate the joints when they are injured. Some NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, work by blocking COX-1 and COX-2, while others, such as Celebrex, block only COX-2.
Aspirin
Aspirin comes in both a prescription and a non-prescription form. The non-prescription form is widely available in tablet form at pharmacies, discount stores, and grocery stores, and also in preparations containing other medications, such as cold medications or antacids. Adults may take aspirin to reduce a fever or relieve pain. It is sometimes also recommended for patients who need protection from a heart attack or stroke. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin without the advice of a doctor, as it can cause Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, when a virus is present.
Aspirin can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. If these symptoms bother you, or if you experience blood in your stools or vomit, contact your doctor.
Ibuprofen
Some brand names for ibuprofen include Motrin and Advil. It is also available generically and in combination with other medications. Prescription ibuprofen is available as well. This drug can be taken for pain, swelling, arthritis, fever, toothache and menstrual pain.
Ibuprofen can cause ulcers, bleeding, a heart attack or a stroke. Do not take ibuprofen if you are on other medications without asking your doctor for advice. If you have a medical condition such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or high cholesterol, or if you have had a heart attack or stroke in the past, seek medical advice before taking this drug.
Naproxen
Naproxen is a prescription NSAID that is often prescribed for people with arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis to relieve pain and swelling. Other indications for naproxen include pain from gout, bursitis or menstrual cramps. Some of the brand names of naproxen are Aleve, Anaprox and Naprelan.
Like ibuprofen, naproxen can cause a higher incidence of heart attack, stroke, bleeding or stomach ulcers. If you have a personal or family history of any of these problems, talk to your doctor before taking this drug.
Celebrex
Celebrex, or celecoxib, is a COX-2 inhibitor that is available by prescription only. Previously, Vioxx and Bextra were also on the market, but they have been withdrawn because of safety and health concerns. Because Celebrex blocks only the COX-2 enzyme, and not the COX-1 enzyme, stomach upset and ulcers are less likely to occur with this drug than with other types of NSAIDs. Abdominal problems can still occur, so if you are taking Celebrex, contact your physician if you experience blood in your vomit or stool or severe stomach pain. Celebrex should not be taken with other NSAIDs. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, hypertension or angina, or if you have any history of blood clots, heart attack or stroke.
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